Method and apparatus for thermally processing microelectronic workpieces

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for thermally processing a microelectronic workpiece is provided. The apparatus comprises a rotatable carousel assembly configured to support at least one workpiece. A driver is coupled to the carousel assembly and rotates the carousel assembly, moving the workpiece between a loading station, a heating station and a cooling station. The loading, heating and cooling stations are radially positioned and approximately equally spaced about a center axis of the carousel assembly. The heating station includes a heating element and an actuator for moving the heating element into thermal engagement with the workpiece in the heating station. The cooling station includes a cooling element and an actuator for moving the cooling element into thermal engagement with the workpiece in the cooling station. A process fluid distribution manifold for delivering process fluid to the workpieces at each station extends through a central opening in the carousel assembly. A non-oxidizing gas is delivered through the manifold to create an oxygen free environment during the thermal process.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not Applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention is generally directed to a method and apparatusfor thermally processing one or more microelectronic workpieces. Morespecifically, the apparatus includes a carousel assembly that rotatesthe workpiece between a loading station, a heating station and a coolingstation positioned radially outwardly from a central axis of thecarousel assembly.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the production of semiconductor integrated circuits and othermicroelectronic articles from microelectronic workpieces, such assemiconductor wafers, it is often necessary to provide multiple metallayers on a substrate to serve as interconnect metallization thatelectrically connects the various devices on the integrated circuit toone another. Traditionally, aluminum has been used for suchinterconnects, however, it is now recognized that copper metallizationmay be preferable. Copper interconnects can help alleviate many of theproblems experienced in connection with the current aluminum technology.

The microelectronic fabrication industry has sought to use copper as theinterconnect metallization by using a damascene and/or patterned platingelectroplating process where holes, more commonly called vias, trenchesand other recesses are used to produce the desired copper patterns. Inthe damascene process, the wafer is first provided with a metallic seedlayer and barrier/adhesion layer that are disposed over a dielectriclayer into which trenches are formed. The seed layer is used to conductelectrical current during a subsequent metal electroplating step.Preferably, the seed layer is a very thin layer of metal that can beapplied using one of several processes. For example, the seed layer ofmetal can be laid down using physical vapor deposition or chemical vapordeposition processes to produce a layer on the order of 1000 angstromsthick. The seed layer can also be formed of copper, gold, nickel,palladium, and most or all other metals. The seed layer is formed over asurface that is convoluted by the presence of the trenches, or otherdevice features, which are recessed into the dielectric substrate.

In single damascene processes using electroplating, a process employingtwo electroplating operations is generally employed. First, a copperlayer is electroplated onto the seed layer in the form of a blanketlayer. The blanket layer is plated to an extent which forms an overlyinglayer, with the goal of completely providing a copper layer that fillsthe trenches that are used to form the horizontal interconnect wiring inthe dielectric layer. The first blanket layer is then subject, forexample, to a chemical mechanical polish step in which the portions ofthe layer extending above the trenches are removed, leaving only thetrenches filled with copper. A further dielectric layer is then providedto cover the wafer surface and recessed vias are formed in the furtherdielectric layer. The recessed vias are disposed to overlie certain ofthe filled trenches. A further seed layer is applied and a furtherelectroplated copper blanket layer are provided that extend over thesurface of the further dielectric layer and fills the vias. Again,copper extending above the level of the vias is removed using, forexample, chemical mechanical polishing techniques. The vias thus providea vertical connection between the original horizontal interconnect layerand a subsequently applied horizontal interconnect layer.Electrochemical deposition of copper films has thus become an importantprocess step in the manufacturing of high-performance microelectronicproducts.

Alternatively, the trenches and vias may be etched in the dielectric atthe same time in what is commonly called a “dual damascene” process.These features are then processed, as above, with barrier layer, seedlayer and fill/blanket layer that fill the trenches and vias disposed atthe bottoms of the trenches at the same time. The excess material isthen polished, as above, to produce inlaid conductors.

The metallurgical properties of the copper metallization can be quiteimportant as the metal structures are formed. This is particularly truein connection with the impact of the metallurgical properties of thecopper metallization during chemical mechanical polishing.Wafer-to-wafer and within wafer grain size variability in the copperfilm can adversely affect the polish rate of the chemical mechanicalprocessing as well as the ultimate uniformity of the surfaces of thepolished copper structures. Large grain size and low variations in grainsize in the copper film are very desirable.

The electrical properties of the copper metallization are also importantto the performance of the associated microelectronic device. Suchdevices may fail if the copper metallization exhibits excessiveelectromigration that ultimately results in an open or short circuitcondition in one or more of the metallization structures. One factorthat has a very large influence on the electromigration resistance ofsub-micron metal layers is the grain size of the deposited metal. Thisis because grain boundary migration occurs with a much lower activationenergy than trans-granular migration.

To achieve the desired electrical characteristics for the coppermetallization, the grain structure of each deposited blanket layer isaltered through an annealing process. This annealing process istraditionally thought to require the performance of a separateprocessing step at which the semiconductor wafer is subject to anelevated temperature of about 400 degrees Celsius. Generally, there aretwo types of annealing apparatus that are presently available. The firsttype is a stand-alone batch unit that is often designed for batchprocessing of wafers disposed in wafer boats. The second type ofannealing apparatus is generally designed to heat and cool a wafer in asingle process chamber. These conventional thermal processing unitspresent a number of drawbacks. First, the cost of batch equipment ishigher due to the extra components to handle workpiece transport.Further, batch thermal processing typically requires massive heating andcooling elements, which typically require relatively long periods oftime in order to change from one temperature and come to equilibrium ata new temperature. Moreover, a large amount of energy is required toheat and cool the massive elements. Heating and cooling in a singleprocess chamber takes relatively long periods of time, reducing thethroughput of the manufacturing process. Finally, exposing heating andcooling elements to repetitive temperature cycling leads to processequipment fatigue and eventually failure.

The present inventors have recognized substantial improvements over theforegoing processes and apparatus currently suitable for thermalprocessing metal microstructures. To this end, the inventors havedeveloped an improved thermal processing apparatus that may be readilyintegrated into a processing tool incorporating a number of otherprocessing reactors, including, for example, an electroplating reactor.The apparatus and methods developed by the inventors provide substantialimprovements over the foregoing processes and apparatus currentlyutilized in thermal processing metal microelectronic structures.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a method and an apparatus for thermallyprocessing a microelectronic workpiece. The apparatus includes arotatable carousel assembly that is configured to support at least oneworkpiece. The apparatus further includes a loading station, a heatingstation, a cooling station for thermal processing of the workpiece. Adriver is coupled to the carousel assembly for rotation of the carouselassembly, wherein the workpiece is moved between the loading, heatingand cooling stations. By separating the stations, heating and coolingelements may remain at relatively constant temperatures significantlyimproving equipment reliability and reducing the throughput time of thethermal process.

According to another aspect of the invention, the thermal processingapparatus includes a carousel assembly rotatable about a central axis.The carousel assembly has a frame configured to support a plurality ofworkpieces in substantially horizontal arrangement. The apparatusfurther includes a heating station and a cooling station, wherein theheating and cooling stations are positioned radially outwardly from thecentral axis. A driver is coupled to the carousel assembly for rotationof the carousel assembly whereby the workpieces are selectively rotatedbetween the heating station and the cooling station. Because thecarousel assembly of the present invention allows multiple workpieces tobe processed at the same time, increased manufacturing efficiencies maybe achieved.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, the thermal processingapparatus includes a process fluid distribution system coupled to acarousel assembly. The carousel assembly is configured to hold aplurality of workpieces and sequentially rotate each workpiece from aloading station, a heating station and a cooling station. The processfluid distribution system independently delivers a process fluid to thecarousel assembly for distribution to each workpiece at the loading,heating and cooling stations. As a result, wafers can be maintained inan environment free from oxygen throughout the entire thermal process,reducing the risk of unwanted oxides being formed on the wafer.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method ofthermally processing a microelectronic workpiece is provided. A firstworkpiece is loaded into a carousel assembly configured to hold aplurality of workpieces. The carousel assembly rotates, moving the firstworkpiece to a heating station where a heating element is moved intothermal engagement with the first workpiece. The first workpiece isheated and a second workpiece is loaded into the carousel assembly. Oncethe first workpiece is raised to a desired temperature, the carouselassembly rotates again, moving the first workpiece to a cooling stationand the second workpiece to the heating station. A cooling element ismoved into thermal engagement with the heated first workpiece; theheating element is moved into thermal engagement with the secondworkpiece; and a third workpiece is loaded into the carousel assembly.Once the first workpiece is cooled to a desired temperature and thesecond workpiece is heated to a desired temperature, the first workpieceis removed from the carousel assembly. The carousel assembly thenrotates again, moving the second and third workpieces to the cooling andheating stations, respectively. A fourth workpiece is loaded into thecarousel assembly and the thermal process continues. The continuousprocess allows for an efficient and uniform transfer of thermal energyto the workpieces, resulting in increased throughput, more efficientenergy expenditures and improved equipment reliability.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus for thermally processingmicroelectronic workpieces according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1, showing acarousel assembly operably connected to a housing of the chamber withthe cover of the housing removed;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1, showing theunderside of the housing of the chamber;

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1, showing a baseof the housing of the chamber;

FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1, showing theunderside of the base of the housing;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a cover assembly found in the apparatusof FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the cover assembly found in theapparatus of FIG. 1, showing an underside of the cover assembly;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view a frame of the carousel assembly found inthe apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5B is a side view a frame of the carousel assembly found in theapparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a driver and process fluid distributionsystem found in the apparatus of FIG. 1, showing an underside of thesystem;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the driver and process fluiddistribution system found in the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6C is a plan view of the driver and process fluid distributionsystem found in the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6D is a cross-section of the driver and process fluid distributionsystem found in the apparatus of FIG. 1, taken along line D-D of FIG.6C;

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the driver and process fluid distributionsystem found in the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a partial cross-section of the driver and process fluiddistribution system found in the annealing chamber of FIG. 1, showinginternal components, including a passageway, of the system;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a heating element of the apparatus ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the heating element of FIG. 9A, showingan underside of the cooling element;

FIG. 9C is a plan view of the heating element of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9D is a cross-section of the heating element of FIG. 9A taken alongline D-D of FIG. 9C;

FIG. 10A is a plan view of the of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10B is a cross-section of the apparatus of FIG. 1 taken along lineB-B of FIG. 10A, showing a heating station;

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a cooling element of the apparatus ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the cooling element of FIG. 11A,showing an underside of the cooling element;

FIG. 11C is a plan view of the cooling element of FIG. 11A;

FIG. 11D is a cross-section of the cooling element of FIG. 11A takenalong line D-D of FIG. 11C;

FIG. 12A is a plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 12B is a cross-section of the apparatus of FIG. 1 taken along lineB-B of FIG. 12A, showing a cooling station;

FIG. 13A is a plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13B is a cross-section of the apparatus of FIG. 1 taken along lineB-B of FIG. 13A, showing a loading station;

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the annealing chambers of FIG. 1,showing a front portion of the chambers in a stacked configuration; and,

FIG. 14B is a perspective view of the annealing chambers of FIG. 1,showing a rear portion of the chambers in a stacked configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For purposes of the present application, a microelectronic workpiece isdefined to include a workpiece formed from a substrate upon whichmicroelectronic circuits or components, data storage elements or layers,and/or micromechanical elements are formed. Although the presentinvention is applicable to this wide range of products, the inventionwill be particularly described in connection with its use in theproduction of interconnect structures formed during the production ofintegrated circuits on a semiconductor wafer. Still further, althoughthe invention is applicable for use in connection with a wide range ofmetal and metal alloys as well as in connection with a wide range ofelevated temperature processes, the invention will be particularlydescribed in connection with annealing of electroplated copper andcopper alloys.

The present invention generally relates to an apparatus 10 and methodfor thermally processing microelectronic workpieces W. Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, the apparatus or chamber 10 includes a housing 20, acarousel assembly 100 positioned within the housing 20, a driver andprocess fluid distribution system 200, a heating element 300 and acooling element 400. As explained below, the chamber 10 has multiplestations for thermal processing of workpieces W. Although shown as astand alone unit in FIG. 1, the chamber 10 can be positioned within alarger tool or module for high-speed processing of workpieces W.

The housing 20 of the chamber 10 generally comprises a cover 22 that isremoveably connected to a base 24. The cover 22 has a side wallcomponent 26 joined with a plurality of fasteners 27 to a top wallcomponent 28. A portion of the base 24 has a stepped outer edge or lip25 that facilitates the connection with the side wall 26 and that causesthe periphery of the base 24 to have a staggered appearance. The cover22 has at least one opening or bay 30 that provides access to theinternal components of the chamber 10. Preferably, the cover 22 has botha first opening 30 that provides access for loading of the workpiece Wand a second opening 32 that provides access for unloading of aprocessed workpiece W. Alternatively, the chamber 10 has a singleopening whereby the workpieces W are loaded in and unloaded from thatopening.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the base 24 of the housing 20 has a number ofopenings, including a pair of centralized openings 40 a, b configured toreceive an extent of the drive and process fluid distribution system200. Specifically, the primary centralized opening 40 a receives aportion of the drive components of the system 200 and the secondarycentralized opening 40 b receives a portion of the process fluidcomponents of the system 200. The base 24 further includes a firstopening 42 configured to receive a heating element 300 (see FIG. 10B),and a second opening 44 configured to receive a cooling element or chuck400 (see FIG. 12B). At least one locating shaft 46 depends from a lowersurface 24 a of the base 24 to facilitate the installation of thechamber 10 into a larger tool or module. The locating shaft 46 isconfigured to receive a fastener inserted in an opening 47 in the uppersurface of the 24 b of the base 24. The base 24 may also include a pairof recessed areas 48 for securement of an actuator 50 that extends froma housing 51 substantially perpendicular to an upper surface 24 b of thebase 24. An alternate version of the base 24 is shown in FIGS. 3B and C,wherein the drive and process fluid distribution system 200 and twoactuators 50 are installed in an alternate base 24. The alternate base24 lacks the recessed areas 48 that are utilized in the securement ofthe actuators 50. Each actuator 50, such as an air cylinder, includes ashaft 52 with a pedestal 54 that is raised to engage an extent of acontrol arm 128 (see FIG. 2) of the cover assemblies 120, 122, 124during operation of the apparatus 10. Preferably, the chamber 10includes two air cylinders 50 since the cover assemblies 120, 122, 124are elevated and the workpieces W are accessed and handled by a separaterobot (not shown) at the loading station 505 and the cooling station405. Alternatively, the chamber 10 includes a single air cylinder 50whereby the workpieces W are access and handled at a single station 405,505.

FIG. 2 shows the base 24 of the housing 20 and the carousel assembly100, however, the cover 22 has been removed. The carousel assembly 100rotates above the base 24 and about a central vertical axis extendingthrough a centralized opening 40 a of the base 24. Referring to FIGS. 2and 5A,B, the carousel 100 includes a frame 102 that includes at leastone workpiece receiver 104. In one embodiment, the frame 102 includes afirst workpiece receiver 104, a second workpiece receiver 106, and athird workpiece receiver 108. The receivers 104, 106, 108 are configuredto removeably receive a workpiece W during operation of the apparatus10. The receivers 104, 106, 108 support the workpieces W in asubstantially horizontal arrangement with respect to the frame 102.Preferably, each receiver 104, 106, 108 has a plurality of fingers ortabs 110 that extend radially inward from an inner edge 112 to support aworkpiece W. In one embodiment, the tabs 110 are circumferentiallyspaced along the edge 112 of the receivers 104, 106, 108 and engage thelower (non-device) side of the workpiece W. Although shown as having asemi-circular configuration, additional material could be added to thereceivers 104, 106, 108 whereby they would have a circularconfiguration.

The frame 102 of the carousel 100 also includes a rib arrangement 114that is raised vertically from an upper surface 102 a of the frame 102.The frame 102 has external segments 102 b and a depending segment 102 c(see FIG. 5B). The rib arrangement 114 is generally configured toincrease the rigidity and strength of the frame 102. The rib arrangement114 has three segments 114 a, b, c wherein each segment extends radiallyoutward from a central opening 116 in the frame 102 and between a pairof receivers 104, 106, 108. The central opening 116 is positioned at thehub 117 of the frame 102 and accommodates an extent of the driver andprocess fluid distribution system 200, primarily a manifold 210 of thesystem 200. The receivers 104, 106, 108 are radially positioned aboutthe central opening 116 in an approximately 120 degree relationship.When the carousel assembly 100 is assembled, the central opening 116 iscooperatively positioned with the centralized opening 40 a of the base24 and the central axis that extends there through.

The carousel assembly 100 further includes at least one cover assembly120 that is movable between a closed position P_(C) (see FIG. 2) and anopen position. Referring to FIG. 2, the carousel assembly 100 includes afirst cover assembly 120 operably associated with the first workpiecereceiver 104, a second cover assembly 122 operably associated with thesecond workpiece receiver 106, and a third cover assembly 124 operablyassociated with the third workpiece receiver 108. For example, the firstcover assembly 120 remains positioned over the first receiver 104 andthe second cover assembly 122 remains positioned over the secondreceiver 106 during rotation of the carousel assembly 100. Referringspecifically to FIGS. 2 and 4A, B, each cover assembly 120, 122, 124includes a cover plate 126, a control arm 128, a mounting bracket 130,and a purge line 131. The cover plate 126 is dimensioned to overlie orcover the receivers 104,106,108 when the cover assembly 120, 122, 124 isin the closed position P_(C). In the closed position P_(C) of FIG. 2,the cover plate 126 is positioned near external segments 102 b of theframe 102. In an open position (not shown), the cover assembly 120, 122,124 is elevated with respect to the frame 102 to permit insertion of aworkpiece W into the receiver 104, 106, 108. Upon completion of thethermal processing steps, the cover assembly 120, 122, 124 is elevatedin the open position to removal of a workpiece W from the receiver 104,106, 108. The underside of the cover assembly 120, 122, 124 is shown inFIG. 4B, wherein the plate 126 has a circumferential lip 125 and acentral opening 127 that, as explained below, receives process fluidduring the thermal processing of the workpiece W. Therefore, in theclosed position P_(C), the cover assembly 120, 122, 124, the workpiece Wand the frame 102 define an internal cavity that receives process fluidduring operation of the chamber 10 to remove impurities from the cavity.

The control arm 128 pivotally connects the cover assembly 120, 122, 124to an extent of the rib arrangement 114 with a mounting bracket 130,preferably near the terminus of the rib segments 114 a, b, c. Thecontrol arm 128 is a multi-bar linkage system with a plurality of links132 extending between the mounting bracket 130 and a distribution block134. The control arm 128 has a pair of external links 132 a, b pivotallyconnected to outer walls of the bracket 130 and an internal link 132 cconnected to a short link 132 d that is affixed to an intermediateportion of the bracket 130. The distribution block 134 is affixed to anupper surface 126 a of the cover plate 126 and is in fluid communicationwith the central opening 127. The control arm 128 also has a curvilinearsegment 136 that extends from the block 134 beyond the periphery of thecover plate 126. A terminal end 138 of the curvilinear segment 136 has afitting 140 secured by a nut 142 wherein the fitting 140 is adapted toengage the air cylinder 50, preferably the pedestal 54, to move thecover assembly 120, 122, 124 to the open position P₀.

A fluid line 131 of the cover assembly 120, 122, 124 extends between thedistribution block 134 and the manifold 210 of the driver and processfluid distribution system 200. The driver and process fluid distributionsystem 200 is affixed to the carousel 100 at the rib arrangement 114 byat least one fastener 115. As explained below, the manifold 210 is influid communication with the driver and process fluid distributionsystem 200. The manifold 210 includes three outlet or discharge ports212 that are connected to a first end 131 a of the purge line 131. Asecond end 131 b of the fluid line 131 is in fluid communication withthe distribution block 134. In general terms, process fluid is deliveredfrom the manifold 210, through the fluid lines 131 and to the blocks 134for further distribution into the opening 127 of the cover plate 126 andthen to the workpiece W supported by the receivers 104, 106, 108.

As briefly explained above, the base 24 of the housing 20 has a numberof openings 40 a, b configured to receive the driver and process fluiddistribution system 200. Referring to FIGS. 3A-C, 6A-D and 7, the driverand process fluid distribution system 200 features a process fluiddistribution assembly 205 and a driver assembly 215, wherein theassemblies 205, 215 are connected to a mounting plate 220, which in turnis connected to the base 24. Alternatively, the mounting plate 220 isomitted and the assemblies 205, 215 are fastened directly to the base 24of the housing 20. In one embodiment, the process fluid distributionassembly 205 and the driver assembly 215 are integrated units. Inanother embodiment, the process fluid distribution assembly 205 isdistinct and separate from the driver assembly 215. The process fluidassembly 205 is designed to supply process fluid to workpieces W at theloading, heating, and/or cooling stations 305, 405, 505. The processfluid distributed by the system 200 can purge the loading, heating, andcooling stations 305, 405, 505 of oxygen or impurities. Also, theprocess fluid distributed by the system 200 can aid with the thermalprocessing of the workpiece W in the loading, heating, and coolingstations 305, 405, 505. The process fluid can be an inert gas such asargon or helium, a non-oxidizing gas such as nitrogen, a reducing gassuch as hydrogen, an oxidizing gas such as oxygen or ozone, or anycombination thereof. Preferably, the process fluid comprisesapproximately 90-97% by volume argon and approximately 3-10% by volumehydrogen, or approximately 90-98% by volume nitrogen and approximately2-10% by volume hydrogen. Furthermore, the process fluid can be anyfluid that aids with the removal of impurities and/or aids with thethermal processing of workpieces W. The driver assembly 215, through anindexing drive motor 234, precisely rotates the carousel assembly 100above the base 24 and between thermal processing stations.

Once installed in the base 24, an extent of the driver and process fluiddistribution system 200 is positioned above the base 24 and a remainingextent of the system 200 is positioned below the base 24. A bracket 217is connected to the lower surface 220 a of the mounting plate 220 withfasteners 217 a and at least one pin dowel 217 b (see FIG. 7). Thebracket 217 is adapted to provide support to components of the processfluid assembly 205 during operation of the carousel assembly 100. Acover 219 is removeably connected to the mounting plate 220 by at leastone fastener 221 to enclose the lower components of the driver andprocess fluid distribution system 200, meaning those componentspositioned below the base 24.

As shown in FIGS. 6A-D and 7, the process fluid distribution assembly205 generally includes the manifold 210 with outlet ports 212 that arein fluid communication with the purge lines 131, a base 222 with aflange 224 for connection to the mounting plate 220, and a generallycylindrical input sleeve 226 that receives process fluid from the supplylines 228. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-C and 7, the manifold 210and the mounting plate 220 are omitted, however, the flange 224 of thebase 222 is directly connected to a recessed mounting region of thecentralized opening 40 b. While the base 222 and the input sleeve 226are stationary components of the process fluid assembly 205, themanifold 210 rotates about a substantially vertical axis defined by ashaft 236 during operation of the carousel assembly 100. The manifold210 has a shoulder 211 that overlies an upper region of the sleeve 226after the manifold 210 is installed (see FIG. 6D). Furthermore, themanifold has a depending segment 210 a that extends into the sleeve 226.

As shown in FIGS. 6B and 7, a plurality of supply lines 228 areconnected to the input sleeve 226, wherein the lines 228 provide aquantity of process fluid, primarily a non-oxidizing gas, to the sleeve226 and the manifold 210 for distribution through the fluid lines 131 tothe cover plates 126. The supply lines 228 a, b, c are removeablyconnected to the inlet opening 227 a, b, c of the sleeve 226 (see FIG.6A). The sleeve 226 has a plurality of internal annular or ring-shapedchannels 229 a, b, c wherein each channel 229 is in fluid communicationwith an inlet opening 227 a, b, c. Preferably, the channels 229 a, b, care flush with an inner wall of the sleeve 226. Referring to FIG. 8, therotatable manifold 210 has a plurality of internal channels 230 a, b, cthat extend between upper and lower segments of the manifold 210 andthat are in fluid communication with the annular channels 229 a, b, c ofthe sleeve 226. Preferably, the channels 230 a, b, c in the manifold 210include two horizontal runs—a lower run 230 ₁ and an upper run 230 ₂ anda vertical run 230 ₃—to ensure fluid communication with the annularchannels 229 a, b, c and the discharge ports 212 a, b, c. For exampleand as shown in FIG. 8, the lower run 230 a ₁ of the channel 230 a is influid communication with the annular channel 229 a, and the upper run230 a ₂ is in fluid communication with the discharge port 212 a. Theannular channels 229 in the sleeve 226 and the internal channels 230 ofthe manifold 210 define an air or fluid passageway 231 a, b, c for theflow of process fluid delivered by the supply lines 228 a, b, c to theinlet openings 227 a, b, c. Accordingly, each passageway 231 a, b, cextends from the inlet opening 227 a, b, c through the annular channel229 a, b, c, then the internal channel 230 a, b, c and to discharge port212 a, b, c. The passageways 231 a, b, c enable the process fluiddistribution system 205 to delivery process fluid to the workpiece Wwhile it is supported by any of the receivers 104, 106, 108 at theloading station 505 (see FIG. 13) or as the carousel assembly 100 isrotated from the station 505 to the heating station 405. In anotherembodiment, the passageways 231 a, b, c enable the process fluiddistribution system 205 to delivery process fluid to the workpiece Wwhile it is supported by any of the receivers 104, 106, 108 at each ofthe loading, heating and cooling stations 505, 305, 405.

The process fluid assembly 205 further includes means for sealing theprocess fluid supplied to the sleeve 226. The sealing means comprises aplurality of gaskets or sealing rings 232, for example, O-rings,positioned about the channels 230 in the sleeve 226 (see FIGS. 6C, 7 and8). In one embodiment, the process fluid assembly 205 includes threefluid passageways 231 a, b, c wherein each passageway 231 a, b, c is influid communication with a single, distinct discharge port 212 a, b, c.This configuration ensures that a precise amount and/or type of processfluid will be delivered by the passageway 231 a, b, c to each dischargeport 212 a, b, c for further distribution to specific components of thecarousel assembly 100. As a result, the components of the carouselassembly 100 downstream of the passageway 231 a, b, c can be selectivelysupplied with process fluid for the workpiece W. In another embodiment,the process fluid assembly 205 includes a single passageway 231 throughthe sleeve 226 and manifold 210 to deliver process fluid to all of thedischarge ports 212 a, b, c.

One of skill in the art recognizes that the formation of a passageway231 a, b, c is not dependent upon the angular position of the manifold210 with respect to the sleeve 226, since the annular channel 229 a, b,c has a continuous, uninterrupted configuration. In another version ofthe process fluid assembly 205, the channel 229 a, b, c has a short,non-annular configuration. Accordingly, a passageway 231 a, b, c forprocess fluid will be only formed when the internal channel 230 a, b, c,primarily the lower run 230 ₁, is aligned or cooperatively positionedwith the channel 229 a, b, c. In yet another version, the channel 229 a,b, c has a discontinuous or segmented configuration whereby thepassageway 231 a, b, c will only be formed when the lower run 230 ₁ iscooperatively positioned with the channel 229 a, b, c.

As explained in greater detail below, the driver assembly 215 rotatesthe carousel assembly 100, including three cover assemblies 120, 122,124, the control arms 128, and the frame 102, between the loading,heating and cooling stations 305, 405, 505. Alternatively, the loadingstation 505 is omitted and the driver assembly 215 rotates the carouselassembly 100 between the heating and cooling stations 405, 505. Thedriver assembly 215 includes an indexing drive motor or driver 234 witha depending shaft 235, the longer shaft 236 extending through an openingin the mounting plate 220, a first pulley 238, a second pulley 239, anda timing belt 240. In general terms, the pulleys 238, 239, the belt 240and the shaft 236 are operably connected to the indexing motor 234 todrive the manifold 210. The drive mechanism 234 further includes a firstbearing 242 positioned within a recess of the mounting plate 220, asecond bearing 244 positioned in a recess of the bracket 217, and a pairof ring seals 246 located at opposed ends of the shaft 236. As shown inFIG. 6A, the second bearing 244 has an open face whereby the end wall236 a of the shaft 236 is visible. A plate seal 248 is affixed to anupper wall in a recess 250 of the mounting plate 220 by fasteners 252and a smaller seal 254 is positioned between the first bearing 242 andthe plate seal 248.

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 7, to aid with the operable connection betweenthe pulleys 238, 239 and the timing belt 240, the driver assembly 215features a tensioner assembly which includes a tensioning arm 256 and abearing 258 that engages the timing belt 240 during its operation. Thetensioner assembly also includes a first fastener 260 that pivotallyconnects the arm 256 to the lower surface 220 a of the mounting plate220, and a second fastener 262 and washer 264 that rotatably secures thebearing 258 to the arm 256. The tensioner assembly further includes acoil spring 266 for biasing the tensioning arm 256 towards the timingbelt 240 whereby the bearing 258 rotatably engages the belt 240. Thecoil spring 266 is secured at its first end to a retainer 268 affixed tothe tensioning arm 256 and at its second end by a pin 270 affixed to themounting block plate 220.

The driver assembly 215 and the process fluid assembly 205 feature acompact design, which permits a significant portion of the driver andprocess fluid distribution system 200 to be packaged between the base 24of the housing 20 and the frame 102 of the carousel assembly 100. Due tothe indexing drive motor 234, the driver assembly 215 precisely drivesor rotates the manifold 210 and the carousel assembly 100, including thecover assemblies 120, 122, 124, and the frame 102, above the base 24 andbetween the radially positioned stations 305, 405, 505 for thermalprocessing of the workpieces W. The remaining components of the processfluid distribution system, including the base 222 and the sleeve 226,are not rotated and remain stationary with respect to the base 24.

Referring to FIGS. 9A-D and 10A, B, the chamber 10 includes anelectrically-powered heating element or chuck 300 that transfers asufficient quantity of heat to the workpiece W during thermalprocessing. In one embodiment, the workpiece W is rotated by thecarousel assembly 100 from a loading position P0 at the loading station505 (see FIG. 13) to a heating station 305. The heating station 305 is aregion of the chamber 10 that is defined by the heating element 300, aportion of the carousel assembly 100 (primarily the extent of the plate102 positioned above the heater element 300, including the tabs 110 thatsupport the workpiece W), and the cover plate 126 of the a coverassembly 120, 122, 124. Described in a different manner, the driverassembly 215 rotates the workpiece W supported in the carousel assembly100 from the loading position P0 to a first position P1 (see FIG. 10B)for thermal processing, wherein in the first position P1 the workpiece Wis positioned directly above the heating element 300. Through rotationof the carousel assembly 100, the workpieces W can be sequentiallyplaced in the first position P1. In another embodiment, the loadingstation 505 and the heating station 305 are combined whereby the loadingposition P0 and the first position P1 are consolidated causing theworkpiece W to be loaded and heated by the heating element 300 in thesame general location.

The heating element 300 has a generally cylindrical configuration and asshown in FIGS. 10A and B, is positioned within the opening 42 in thebase 24 of the housing 20 to define an initial position. Furthermore,the heating element 300 is positioned substantially between the base 24and the frame 102 of the carousel assembly 100, while being positionedradially outward of the driver and process fluid distribution system200. The heating element 300 generally comprises an upper portion 302with a heating surface 304 that is placed in thermal contact with theworkpiece W, an intermediate portion 306 with a insulated cavity 308,and a lower portion 310 that includes an actuator 312, such as a bellowsassembly, that moves or elevates the heating element 300 from theinitial position to a use position for thermal processing of theworkpiece W. Upon completion of the thermal processing of a particularworkpiece W, the actuator 312 returns the heating element 300 to itsinitial position.

The upper portion 302 employs an electrically-powered resistive heater303 and has a circular periphery 314. A recessed annular ledge 316 ispositioned radially inward of the periphery 314. In one embodiment theheating surface 304 is located radially inward of the ledge 316, whilein another embodiment, the heating surface 304 extends to the periphery314 of the upper portion 302. The heating surface 304 is cooperativelydimensioned with the workpiece W to permit thermal processing of theworkpiece W. The heating surface 304 includes an arrangement of vacuumchannels 318 that are positioned about a central opening 320 of theheating surface 304. A passageway 322 extends transverse to the heatingsurface 304 from the central opening 320 to an internal fitting 324.Vacuum air is supplied through the fitting 324 and the passageway 322 tothe vacuum channels 318 wherein the vacuum air helps to maintain avacuum seal engagement between the heating element 300 and the workpieceW. A vacuum air delivery mechanism, including an external fitting 326,extends through the intermediate and lower portions 306, 310 and is influid communication with the internal fitting 324. The vacuum airdelivery mechanism is coupled to a vacuum source (not shown) thatsupplies the vacuum air used during annealing of the workpiece W.

Preferably, the upper portion 302 also includes a plurality ofdepressions 328 that extend radially inward from the periphery 314. Thedepressions 328 are cooperatively positioned and dimensioned to receivean extent of the tabs 110 of the frame 102 of the carousel assembly 100when the heating element 300 is elevated by the bellows assembly 312 tothe use position and the heating surface 304 engages the workpiece W.The depressions 328 disengage the tabs 110 when the thermal processingis completed and the bellows assembly 312 lowers the heating element 300to its initial position. Alternatively, the depressions 328 are omittedand tabs 110 engage a portion of the heating surface 304 when theheating element 300 is elevated. To secure the upper portion 302 to theheating element 300, a plurality of fasteners 330 are inserted throughslots 332 in the side wall 334 of the upper portion 302.

The intermediate portion 306 of the heating element 300 includes acavity 308 within a side wall 307 wherein the cavity 308 includesconventional insulation. The intermediate portion 306 also includes abottom wall 336 that is secured to a top wall 338 of the lower portion310 by fasteners 340 (See FIG. 9D).

The actuator or bellows assembly 312 is generally positioned in thelower portion 310 of the heater element 300. The bellows assembly 312moves the upper and intermediate portions 302, 306, including theheating surface 304, from the initial position towards the frame 102 ofthe carousel assembly 100 and to the use position. In the initialposition and as shown in FIG. 10B, there is a clearance C between theheating surface 304 and the workpiece W. In the use position, theheating element 300 is in thermal engagement with the workpiece W toenable heat transfer to the workpiece W. Preferably, in the useposition, the heating surface 304 is in direct contact with thenon-device side of the workpiece W thereby eliminating the clearance C.Alternatively, in the use position, the heating surface 304 is in closeproximity to the non-device side of the workpiece W therebysignificantly reducing the clearance C. When the bellows assembly 312lowers the heating element 300 from the use position to the initialposition, the clearance C is present.

The bellows assembly 312 includes the top wall 338, a bottom wall 344,and a bellow 346. In one embodiment, the bellow 346 has a cylindricalconfiguration and the bottom wall has a central core 345 that ispositioned within the bellow 346. In another embodiment, the bellowsassembly 312 includes a number of bellows 346 circumferentially spacedwith respect to the bottom wall 336. Referring to FIG. 10B, at least onefastener 345 extends through the bottom wall 344 and the base 24 tosecure the heating element 300 to the chamber 10 above the opening 42 inthe base 24. The bellows assembly 312 further includes a bushing 348within a cover 350 affixed to the bottom wall 344 by fasteners 352. Asealing ring 354, preferably an O-ring, configured to seal the cover 350with respect to the bottom wall 344 is positioned within a cavity of thecover 350. The bushing 348 is affixed to the bottom wall 344 byfasteners 356, and has a central opening with a guide sleeve 358 thatsliding engages an extent of a guide shaft 360. A stop portion 360 aextends transversely to a main body potion 360 b of the shaft 360. Theshaft 360 is coupled to the top wall 338 at an upper portion 360 c byfasteners 362. In operation of the bellow assembly 312 and while theheating element 300 is moved between the initial and use positions, theguide shaft 360 slides through the sleeve 358 and towards the heatingsurface 304.

When the bellow assembly 312 moves the upper and intermediate portions302, 304 a sufficient distance to bring the heating element 300 to theuse position, vacuum air is supplied to the internal fitting 324 fordelivery through the central opening 320 in the heating surface 304.Similarly, when the heating element 300 reaches the use position, theheating element 300 is activated to begin a heating cycle for theannealing of the workpiece W. Referring to FIG. 9B, the bellows assembly312 includes at least one inductive sensor 364 which extends though aside wall 353 of the cover 350 and that monitors the position of theheater element 300, including the shaft 360. The sensor 364, inconnection with the control system 600, prevents rotation of thecarousel assembly 100 until the bellows assembly 312 returns the heatingelement 300 to its initial position (see FIG. 10B). In operation, thesensor 364 and the control system ensure the timely rotation of thecarousel assembly 100, the delivery of vacuum air, and the activation ofthe heating element 300 and the heating cycle.

Referring to FIGS. 11A-D and 12A, B, the chamber 10 includes a coolingelement or chuck 400 that cools the workpiece W during a post-heatingstage of thermal processing. After the heating stage is completed, theworkpiece W is rotated by the carousel assembly 100 from the heatingstation 305 to a cooling station 405 having the cooling element 400. Thecooling station 405 is a region of the chamber 10 that is defined by thecooling element 400, a portion of the carousel assembly 100 (primarilythe extent of the plate 102 positioned above the cooling element 400,including the tabs 110 that support the workpiece W), and the coverplate 126 of a cover assembly 120, 122, 124. Described in a differentmanner, the driver assembly 215 rotates the workpiece W supported in thecarousel assembly 100 from the first position P1 to a second position P2(see FIG. 12B) for thermal processing. In the second position P2 theworkpiece W is positioned substantially above the cooling element 400.Through rotation of the carousel assembly 100, the workpieces W aresequentially placed in the second position P2 for thermal processing bythe cooling element 400. As shown in FIG. 12B, the workpiece W issupported in the second position P2 by the tabs 110 of the frame 102.Preferably, the workpiece W is removed or unloaded from the carouselassembly 100 at the second position P2 through the second opening 32upon completion of the cooling cycle. Alternatively, the workpiece W isrotated from the cooling station 405 to the loading station 505 or theloading position P0 where it is unloaded prior to the loading of anunprocessed workpiece W.

The cooling element 400 has a generally cylindrical configuration and asshown in FIGS. 12A and B, is positioned within the opening 44 in thebase 24 of the housing 20. Furthermore, the cooling element 400 ispositioned substantially between the base 24 and the frame 102 of thecarousel assembly 100. Like the heating element 300, the cooling element400 is positioned radially outward of the driver and process fluiddistribution system 200. The cooling element 400 generally comprises anupper portion 402 with a cooling surface 404 that is placed in thermalcontact with the workpiece W, an intermediate portion 406, and a lowerportion 410 that includes an actuator 412, such as a bellows assembly,that moves the cooling element 400 for thermal processing of theworkpiece W.

The upper portion 402 has a circular periphery 414 and a recessedannular ledge 416 positioned radially inward of the periphery 414. Inone embodiment the cooling surface 404 is located radially inward of theledge 416, while in another embodiment, the cooling surface 404 extendsto the periphery 414 of the upper portion 402. The cooling surface 404includes an arrangement of vacuum channels 418 that are positioned abouta central opening 420 of the cooling surface 404. A passageway (notshown) extends transverse to the cooling surface 404 from the centralopening 420 to an internal fitting (not shown). Vacuum air is suppliedthrough the fitting and the passageway to the vacuum channels 418wherein the vacuum air helps to maintain a vacuum seal engagementbetween the cooling element 400 and the workpiece W. A vacuum airdelivery mechanism, including an external fitting 426, extends throughthe intermediate and lower portions 406, 410 and is in fluidcommunication with the vacuum channels 418. The vacuum air deliverymechanism is coupled to a vacuum source (not shown) that supplies thevacuum air used during annealing of the workpiece W.

Preferably, the upper portion 402 also includes a plurality ofdepressions 428 that extend radially inward from the periphery 414. Thedepressions 428 are cooperatively positioned and dimensioned to receivean extent of the tabs 110 of the frame 102 of the carousel assembly 100when the cooling element 400 is elevated by the bellows apparatus 412 tothe use position and the cooling surface 404 thermally engages theworkpiece W. The depressions 428 disengage the tabs 110 when the thermalprocessing is completed and the bellows apparatus 412 lowers the coolingelement 400 to its original position. Alternatively, the depressions 428are omitted and the workpiece W engages an extent of the cooling surface404 when the cooling element 400 is elevated by the bellows apparatus412.

The upper portion 402 of the cooling element 400 further includes acooling system 430 that comprises a plurality of internal channels 432,at least one inlet port 434 and at least one outlet port 436. Theinternal channels 432, the inlet port 434 and outlet port 436 define afluid passageway for the cooling medium utilize during operation of thecooling station 405. The cooling medium used in the cooling system 430and supplied to the channels 432 is a fluid such as water, glycol or acombination thereof. In operation, the cooling medium is suppliedthrough the inlet ports 434 to the channels 432 and discharged by theoutlet port 436. Although shown in FIG. 11D as being positioned on oneside of the upper portion 402, the channels 432 are arrayed throughoutthe upper portion 402. Thus, there is an innermost annular channel 432a, an outermost annular channel 432 b, and at least one intermediateannular channel 432 c. The precise number of channels 432 varies withthe design parameters of the cooling element 400 and the cooling system430. An inner sealing ring 431 is positioned radially inward of theinner-most channel 432 a and about a fastener 433 that secures the upperportion 402 to the intermediate portion 406, and an outer sealing ring435 is positioned radially outward of the outer-most channel 432 b.Preferably, the sealing rings 431, 433 are O-rings.

In one embodiment, the cooling system 430 includes an inlet manifold(not shown) that distributes the cooling media from the inlet ports 434to the internal channels 432. Similarly, the cooling system 430 includesa discharge manifold (not shown) that distributes cooling medium fromthe channels 432 to the discharge port 436. In another embodiment, theinlet and outlet manifolds are omitted wherein the internal channels 432are in fluid communication with each other to define a single,continuous fluid passageway from the inlet port 434, through theinternal channels 432 and to the outlet port 436. In yet anotherembodiment, the internal channels 432 are annular channels arrayed in aconcentric manner and are in fluid communication with inlet anddischarge manifolds.

The intermediate portion 406 of the cooler element 300 is secured to theupper portion 402 by the fastener 426. Although shown as having a solid,plate-like configuration, the intermediate portion 406 can include aninsulated cavity. The intermediate portion 406 is secured to a top wall438 of the lower portion 410 by fasteners 440 (See FIG. 11D).

The actuator or bellows assembly 412 is generally positioned in thelower portion 410 of the cooling element 400. The bellows assembly 412moves the upper and intermediate portions 402, 404, including thecooling surface 404, from the initial position towards the frame 102 ofthe carousel assembly 100 and to the use position. In the initialposition and as shown in FIG. 12B, there is a clearance C between thecooling surface 404 and the workpiece W. In the use position, thecooling element 400 is in thermal engagement with the workpiece W toenable heat transfer to the workpiece W. Preferably, in the useposition, the cooling surface 404 is in direct contact with thenon-device side of the workpiece W thereby eliminating the clearance C.Alternatively, in the use position, the cooling surface 404 is in closeproximity to the non-device side of the workpiece W therebysignificantly reducing the clearance C. When the bellows assembly 412lowers the cooling element 400 from the use position to the initialposition, the clearance C is present.

The bellows assembly 412 includes the top wall 438, a bottom wall 444,and a bellow 446. In one embodiment, the bellow 446 has a cylindricalconfiguration and the bottom wall 444 has a central core 448 that ispositioned within the bellow 446. In another embodiment, the bellowsassembly 412 includes a number of bellows 446 circumferentially spacedwith respect to the bottom wall 436. Referring to FIG. 12B, at least onefastener 445 extends through the bottom wall 444 and the base 24 tosecure the cooling element 400 to the chamber 10 above the opening 44 inthe base 24.

As shown in FIGS. 11B and D, a mounting ring 449 depends from the bottomwall 444. A cover 450 of the bellows assembly 412 is positioned withinthe central region of the ring 449, wherein the cover 450 affixed to thebottom wall 444 by fasteners 451. A bushing 452 is positioned within thecover 450 and is affixed to the bottom wall 444 by at least one fastener454. A sealing ring 456, preferably an O-ring, is positioned within acavity of the cover 450. The bushing 452 has a central opening with aguide sleeve 458 that sliding engages an extent of a guide shaft 460. Astop portion 460 a extends transversely to a main body potion 460 b ofthe shaft 460. The shaft 460 is coupled to the top wall 438 at an upperportion 460 c by at least one fastener 462.

In operation of the bellow assembly 412, the guide shaft 460 slidesthrough the sleeve 458 and towards the cooling surface 404. When thebellow assembly 412 moves the cooling element 400 to the use position,vacuum air is supplied for delivery through the central opening 420 inthe cooling surface 404. Similarly, when the cooling element 400 israised to the use position, the cooling system 430 is activated to begina cooling cycle for the workpiece W. Referring to FIGS. 11B and D, thebellows assembly 412 includes at least one inductive sensor 464 thatextends through a side wall 453 of the cover 450 and that monitors theposition of the cooling element 400, including the shaft 460. The sensor464, in connection with the control system 600, prevents rotation of thecarousel assembly 100 until the bellows assembly 412 returns the coolingelement 400 to its initial position, as shown in FIG. 12B. In operation,the sensor 464 and the control system ensure the timely rotation of thecarousel assembly 100, the delivery of vacuum air, and the activation ofthe cooling mechanism and the cooling cycle.

Referring to FIGS. 13A, B, the chamber 10 includes a loading station 505where the workpiece W is inserted into the carousel assembly 100 tobegin the thermal processing. The loading station 505 is a region of thechamber 10 that is defined by a portion of the carousel assembly 100,primarily the inner portion of the plate 102 including the tabs 110 thatsupport the workpiece W, and the cover plate 126 of a cover assembly120, 122, 124. Preferably, the workpiece W is placed in the loadingstation 505 through the first opening 30. Since the loading station 505lacks a heating element 300 or a cooling element 400, the supply lines229 a-c are positioned near the loading station 505. In anotherembodiment, the loading station 505 is omitted from the chamber 10whereby the workpieces W are loaded directly into the heating station305.

The loading, heating and cooling stations 305, 405, 505 are positionedradially outward of the driver and process fluid distribution system200. Although the loading, heating and cooling stations 305, 405, 505are shown to be positioned approximately 120 degrees apart, the angularpositioning can vary with the design parameters of the assembly 10 andthe carousel 100. In yet another embodiment, the chamber 10 includes aloading station 505 and a distinct unloading station (not shown) whereinthe thermally processed workpiece W is rotated to from the coolingstation 405 for unloading. In this embodiment, the chamber 10 isenlarged to accommodate the unloading station, as well as the loading,heating and cooling stations 305, 405, 505.

As mentioned above, the chamber 10 includes two inductive sensors 364,464 that indicate and communicate the position of the heater and coolingelements 300, 400. The sensors 364, 464 comprise a portion of a controlsystem that monitors and controls a number of functions of the chamber10, including the operation of the air cylinders 50, the coverassemblies 120, 122, 124, the process fluid assembly 205, the driverassembly 215, the bellows apparatus 312, 412. Furthermore, the controlsystem directs the operation and cycle times of the heating element 300and the cooling element 400. For example, the control system utilizes aclosed-loop temperature sensor to ensure the proper operation of theheating element 300 at a process temperature. The feedback control canbe a proportional integral control, a proportional integral derivativecontrol or a multi-variable temperature control.

Referring to FIGS. 14A,B, two annealing chambers 10 are positioned in astacked configuration within a stand 600. The stand 600 includes abottom plate 602, a top plate 604 and a plurality of vertical legs 606,608, 610. A first chamber 10 a is positioned above a second chamber 10b, wherein both chambers 10 a, b are supported by cross-members 612. Toensure the loading and unloading of workpieces W, the first opening 30and the second opening 32 of the chambers 10 a, b are positioned betweenlegs 606, 608, 610. Similarly, the side wall component 26 of the cover22 of the chambers 10 a, b are positioned between legs 608, 610. Whenthe annealing chambers 10 a, b are stacked as shown in FIGS. 14A, B, thethroughput of processed workpieces W is increased while maintaining thesame footprint as a single annealing chamber 10. A further advantage ofthe configuration shown in FIGS. 14A, B is a reduction in the number ofcouplings needed to supply electrical power, process fluid and vacuumair.

In other embodiments, the chamber 10 can have other configurations. Forexample, the cooling element 400 can utilize another medium to cool theworkpiece, such as cold air. The cylinders 50 that actuate the coverassembly 120, 122, 124 can be replaced by an actuator that isnon-pneumatic. The chamber 10 can be configured to perform thermalprocesses other than annealing the workpiece W. For example, the heatingelement 300 can heat a microelectronic workpiece W to reflow solder onthe workpiece W, cure or bake photoresist on the workpiece W, and/orperform other processes that benefit from and/or require an elevatedtemperature. The heating element 300 can heat the microelectronicworkpiece W conductively by contacting the workpiece W directly, and/orconductively via an intermediate gas or liquid, and/or convectively viaan intermediate gas or liquid, and/or radiatively. Similarly, thecooling element 300 can cool the workpiece W conductively by contactingthe workpiece W directly, and/or conductively via an intermediate gas orliquid, and/or convectively via an intermediate gas or liquid, and/orradiatively.

The operation and thermal processing of a workpiece W in the chamber 10is explained with reference to above FIGS. 1-13. The method to thermallyprocess microelectronic workpieces W in the chamber 10 commences withthe step of placing a workpiece W into the loading position P0 at theloading station 505 of the carousel assembly 100 with the device sidefacing away from the base 24. In the loading position P0, the workpieceW is positioned over a loading area 24 c of the base 24 (see FIG. 13B).Referring to FIG. 2, in a preferred embodiment the frame 102 has threereceivers 104,106, 108; thus three workpieces W can be sequentiallyloaded into the carousel assembly 100 for thermal processing. To reachthe loading position P0, the cover assembly 120, 122, 124 is moved fromits closed position to the open position by engagement of the pedestal54 of the air cylinder 50 with the cover control arm 128. Specifically,the air cylinder 50 raises the shaft 52 in a substantially verticaldirection which causes the pedestal 54 to engage and elevate theterminal end 138 of the control arm 128 thereby raising the cover plate126. When the pedestal 54 engages the terminal end 138, the links 132cause the control arm 128 to pivot about the mounting bracket 130 andthereby raise the cover plate 126 a distance sufficient to permitinsertion of the workpiece W. After the workpiece W has been placed inthe receiver 104, 106, 108, the cover plate 126 is lowered to the closedposition by the air cylinder 50.

While the workpiece W is the loaded position P0, the process fluiddistribution assembly 205 distributes a measured quantity of processair, such as nitrogen, through the passageway 231, the cover assembly120, 122, 124 and the distribution block 134 to the workpiece W to purgeimpurities. The cycle time for the process fluid is approximately 15-25seconds. Once a sufficient quantity of process fluid is provided, theprocess fluid distribution assembly 205 can deliver a second processfluid, for example, 1 to 30 liters per minute of a non-oxidizing gas,e.g., nitrogen, argon, hydrogen or helium, through the passageway 231 toaid with the subsequent thermal processing of the workpiece W. When theprocess fluid is supplied at more than one flow rate, the chamber 10 caninclude a mass flow controller and/or a multi-port manifold with a valveto selectively control the flow of fluid into the chamber 10. After asufficient amount of process fluid is delivered by the process fluiddistribution assembly 205 through the passageway 231 to the workpiece Win the loading station 505, the driver assembly 215 rotates the carouselassembly 100 to the first position P1, wherein the workpiece W ispositioned above the heating element 300 in the heating station 305.Rotation of the carousel assembly 100 to move the workpiece W from theloaded position P0 to the first position P1 consumes approximately 1-3seconds. As the chamber 10 is configured in FIGS. 1-13, the carouselassembly 100 rotates in a counter-clockwise direction. However, thechamber 10 can be configured to permit clockwise rotation of thecarousel assembly 100.

In one embodiment, to maintain a controlled processing environment, thecover plate 126 remains in the closed position as the workpiece W isrotated between the loaded position P0, the first position P1 where theheating element 300 is engaged, and the second position P2 where thecooling element 400 is engaged and the workpiece W is subsequentlyunloaded from the chamber 10. In another embodiment, the process fluidassembly 205 delivers a quantity of process fluid through thepassageways 231 at each of the loaded position P0, the first position P1and the second position P2. In yet another embodiment, the process fluidassembly 205 selectively delivers a quantity of process fluid throughthe passageways 231 at the loaded position P0, the first position P1 orthe second position P2.

In the first position P1, the bellows assembly 312 raises or moves theheating element 300 from the base 24 of the housing 20 into the useposition, wherein the heating element 300 is in thermal engagement withthe workpiece W. The bellows assembly 312 takes approximately 1-3seconds to raise and then subsequently lower the heater element 300.Preferably, in the use position, the heating surface 304 is in directcontact with the non-device side of the workpiece W thereby eliminatingthe clearance C. Alternatively, in the use position, the heating surface304 is in close proximity to the non-device side of the workpiece Wthereby significantly reducing the clearance C. To maintain a vacuumseal engagement between the workpiece W and the heating surface 304 ofthe heater element 300, a vacuum is applied via the vacuum channels 318.

To thermally process components of the workpiece W, such as coppermicro-structures, the heating element 300 operates at a selected processtemperature for a specific period of time to define a heating cycle.Because the chamber 10 has distinct heating and cooling elements 300,400, the heating element 300 does not need to be ramped-up or increasedfrom an idle temperature to the process temperature. In contrast toconventional processing devices in which a heat source requires atemperature ramp-up, the heating element 300 can be maintained at ornear the process temperature which increases the operating efficiencyand life of the heating element 300. Since the heating element 300 is inthermal engagement with the workpiece W, the process temperature of theheating element 300 and the process temperature of the workpiece W aresubstantially similar. For example, when the workpiece W includes acopper layer, the heater element 300, with a process temperature rangingbetween 150 to 450 degrees Celsius, heats the workpiece W to atemperature in the range of 150 to 450 degrees Celsius for a cycle timeranging between 15 to 300 seconds. In one specific example, theworkpiece W, including the copper layer therein, is heated toapproximately 250 degrees Celsius for a cycle time of roughly 60seconds. Accordingly, the copper layer can be annealed such that thegrain structure of the layer changes (e.g., the size of the grainsforming the layer can increase). In other embodiments, the workpiece Wcan be heated to a different temperature for another cycle timedepending on the chemical composition of the workpiece W material to bethermally processed. The process temperature of the heater element 300is controlled using a closed-loop temperature sensor feedback controlincorporated into the chamber control system 600, such as a proportionalintegral control, a proportional integral derivative control or amulti-variable temperature control.

Upon expiration of the heating cycle time, the bellows assembly 312lowers the heating element 300 to its original position with respect tothe base 24. The inductive sensor 364 monitors the position of theheating element 300 and communicates this information to the chambercontrol system 600. The sensor 364 and the control system 600 preventfurther rotation of the carousel assembly 100 until the bellows assembly312 has returned the heating element 300 to its original position.Therefore, once the sensor 364 detects that the heating element 300 hasbeen lowered to its original position and the clearance C has beenachieved, the driver assembly 215 rotates the carousel assembly 100 tothe second position P2, wherein the workpiece W is positioned above thecooling element 400 in the heating station 405. Rotation of the carouselassembly 100 to move the workpiece W from the first position P1 to thesecond position P2 consumes approximately 1-3 seconds. While a firstworkpiece W is in the first position P1 and the heating element 300 isin the heating cycle, a second workpiece W can be placed in the loadedposition P0 in a manner consistent with that explained above.

In the second position P2, the bellows apparatus 412 raises or moves thecooling element 400 from the base 24 of the housing 20 into thermalengagement with the workpiece W. In the second position P2, the bellowsapparatus 412 raises or moves the cooling element 400 from the base 24of the housing 20 into the use position, wherein the cooling element 400is in thermal engagement with the workpiece W. Preferably, in the useposition, the cooling surface 404 is direct contact with the non-deviceside of the workpiece W thereby eliminating the clearance C.Alternatively, in the use position, the cooling surface 404 is in closeproximity to the non-device side of the workpiece W therebysignificantly reducing the clearance C. To maintain the thermalengagement between the workpiece W and the cooling surface 404 of thecooling element 400, a vacuum is applied via the vacuum channels 418.

The cooling system 430 of the cooling element 400 is then activated tocool the workpiece W to a selected temperature for a specific period oftime, the cooling cycle time. For example, when the workpiece W includesa copper layer, the workpiece W can be cooled to a temperature below 70degrees Celsius with a cycle time ranging between 15-25 seconds. Duringthe cooling cycle, the cooling system 430 circulates the cooling mediumthrough the fluid passageway defined by the internal annular channels432 of the cooling element 400. Compared to the heater element 300, thecooling element 400 has a reduced cycle time. Because the process fluidcycle time and the cycle time of the cooling element 400 are less thanthe cycle time of the heating element 300, there is sufficient time foran unprocessed workpiece W to be loaded into the loading station 505 andfor a processed workpiece W to be unloaded from the cooling station 405.Consequently, the throughput of the chamber 10 is only dependent uponthe cycle time of the heater element 300.

Upon expiration of the cooling cycle, the bellows assembly 412 lowersthe cooling element 400 to its original position with respect to thebase 24. The inductive sensor 464 monitors the position of the coolingelement 400 and communicates this information to the chamber controlsystem 600. The sensor 464 and the control system 600 prevent furtherrotation of the carousel assembly 100 until the bellows assembly 412 hasreturned the cooling element 400 to its original position. After thecooling cycle time is complete, the process fluid assembly 205 canreplace the process gas with a flow of purge gas. In one embodiment,once the sensor 464 detects that the cooling element 400 has beenlowered to its original position, the cover assembly 120, 122, 124 ismoved from its closed position to the open position by engagement of thepedestal 54 of the air cylinder 50 with the cover control arm 128 asexplained above. After the cover assembly 120, 122, 124 reaches the openposition, the workpiece W is removed from the receiver 104, 106, 108,preferably by a robot. In another embodiment, the driver assembly 215rotates the carousel assembly 100 to the loaded position P0, wherein thecover assembly 120, 122, 124 is moved to the open position and theworkpiece W is removed from the receiver 104, 106,108. While a firstworkpiece W is in the second position P2 and the cooling element 400 isin the cooling cycle, a second workpiece W is in the first position P1and a third workpiece W is in the loaded position P0.

As explained above, the chamber 10 provides for the sequential thermalprocessing of a number of workpieces W_(N). In one embodiment, the frame102 of the chamber 10 has three receivers 104, 106, 108 and as a result,the chamber 10 has the capacity to process three distinct workpieces Wat one time. As an example of the processing sequence, the first coverassembly 120 is moved to the open position and a first workpiece W1 isinserted in the first receiver 104 and placed in the loading position P0at the loading station 505. There, the process fluid assembly 205distributes process fluid through the passageway 231 to the workpiece W1to remove impurities. After a sufficient amount of process gas isdelivered to the first workpiece W1, the driver assembly 215 rotates thecarousel assembly 100 approximately 120 degrees to move the firstworkpiece W1 from the loading position P0 to the first position P1.

When the first workpiece W1 reaches the first position P1, the secondcover assembly 122 is moved to the open position and a second workpieceW2 is inserted in the second receiver 106 and placed in the loadingposition P0 at the loading station 505. In the loading position P0, theprocess fluid assembly 205 distributes process fluid to the secondworkpiece W2 to remove impurities and the second workpiece W2 is readiedfor further processing. In the first position P1, the bellows assembly312 raises the heating element 300 to the use position, wherein theheating element 300 is in thermal engagement with the first workpieceW1. To maintain the thermal engagement between the first workpiece W1and the heating surface 304 of the heater element 300, a vacuum isapplied via the vacuum channels 318. The heating element 300 is thenactivated to the process temperature to thermally process components ofthe first workpiece W1. Upon expiration of the heating cycle time, thebellows assembly 312 lowers the heating element 300 to its originalposition with respect to the base 24. Once the inductive sensor 364detects that the heating element 300 has been lowered to its originalposition, the driver assembly 215 rotates the carousel assemblyapproximately 120 degrees which moves the first workpiece W1 to thesecond position P2 and the second workpiece W2 to the first position P1.

When the first workpiece W1 reaches the second position P2 and thesecond workpiece W2 reaches the first position P1, the third coverassembly 124 is moved to the open position and a third workpiece W3 isinserted in the third receiver 108 and placed in the loading position P0at the loading station 505. In the loading position P0, the processfluid assembly 205 distributes process fluid through the passageway 231to the third workpiece W3 to remove impurities and the third workpieceW3 is readied for further processing. In the first position P1, thebellows assembly 312 raises or moves the heating element 300 to theheater use position, wherein the heating element 300 is in thermalengagement with the second workpiece W2. To maintain the thermalengagement between the second workpiece W2 and the heating surface 304of the heater element 300, a vacuum is applied via the vacuum channels318. The heating element 300 is then activated to the processtemperature to thermally process components of the first workpiece W2.Upon expiration of the heating cycle time, the bellows assembly 312lowers the heating element 300 to its original position with respect tothe base 24. In the second position P2, the bellows apparatus 412 movesthe cooling element 400 to the use position, wherein the cooling element400 is in thermal engagement with the first workpiece W1. The coolingsystem 400 of the cooling element 400 is then activated to cool thefirst workpiece W1 to the desired temperature. During the cooling cycle,the cooling system 400 circulates the cooling medium through the fluidpassageway defined by the internal annular channels 432 of the coolingelement 400. Upon expiration of the cooling cycle, the bellows assembly412 lowers the cooling element 400 to its original position with respectto the base 24. The inductive sensor 464 monitors the position of thecooling element 400 and communicates this information to the chambercontrol system 600. After the inductive sensor 464 detects that thecooling element 400 has been lowered to its original position the firstcover assembly 120 is moved from its closed position to the openposition and the first workpiece W1 is removed from the first receiver104. Next, the first cover assembly 120 is moved to the closed positionand the driver assembly 215 rotates the carousel assembly approximately120 degrees whereby the second workpiece W2 is moved to the secondposition P2 and the third workpiece W3 is moved to the first positionP1.

After the first workpiece W1 is removed from the chamber 10 and when thesecond workpiece W2 reaches the second position P2 and the thirdworkpiece W3 reaches the first position P1, the first cover assembly 120is moved to the open position and a fourth workpiece W4 is inserted inthe first receiver 104 and placed in the loading position P0 at theloading station 505. In the loading position P0, the process fluidassembly 205 distributes process fluid through the passageway 231 to thefourth workpiece W4 to remove impurities and the fourth workpiece W4 isreadied for further processing. In the first position P1, the bellowsassembly 312 raises or moves the heating element 300 to the heater useposition, wherein the heating element 300 is in thermal engagement withthe third workpiece W3. To maintain the thermal engagement between thethird workpiece W3 and the heating surface 304 of the heater element300, a vacuum is applied via the vacuum channels 318. The heatingelement 300 is then activated to the process temperature to thermallyprocess components thereof. Upon expiration of the heating cycle, thebellows assembly 312 lowers the heating element 300 to its originalposition with respect to the base 24. In the second position P2, thebellows apparatus 412 moves the cooling element 400 to the use position,wherein the cooling element 400 is in thermal engagement with the secondworkpiece W2. The cooling system 400 of the cooling element 400 is thenactivated to cool the second workpiece W2 to the desired temperature.During the cooling cycle, the cooling system 400 circulates the coolingmedium through the fluid passageway defined by the internal annularchannels 432 of the cooling element 400. Upon expiration of the coolingcycle, the bellows assembly 412 lowers the cooling element 400 to itsoriginal position with respect to the base 24. The inductive sensor 464monitors the position of the cooling element 400 and communicates thisinformation to the chamber control system 600. After the inductivesensor 464 detects that the cooling element 400 has been lowered to itsoriginal position, the second cover assembly 122 is moved from itsclosed position to the open position and the second workpiece W2 isremoved from the second receiver 106. Next, the second cover assembly122 is moved to the closed position and the driver assembly 215 rotatesthe carousel assembly approximately 120 degrees whereby the thirdworkpiece W3 is moved to the second position P2 and the fourth workpieceW4 is moved to the first position P1.

After the second workpiece W2 is removed from the chamber 10 and whenthe third workpiece W3 reaches the second position P2 and the fourthworkpiece W4 reaches the first position P1, the second cover assembly122 is moved to the open position and a fifth workpiece W5 is insertedin the second receiver 106 and placed in the loading position P0 at theloading station 505. The thermal processing sequence of the third,fourth and fifth workpieces W3, 4, 5 is consistent with that explainedin the foregoing paragraphs. Consequently, the chamber 10 provides forthe sequential thermal processing of multiple workpieces, from the firstworkpiece W1 to a number of workpieces W_(N).

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific embodiments ofthe invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration,but that various modifications may be made without deviating from thespirit and scope of the invention, including, but not limited to,variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner ofoperation, assembly and use.

1. An apparatus for thermally processing a microelectronic workpiece,the apparatus comprising: a rotatable carousel assembly configured tosupport at least one workpiece; a loading station; a heating station; acooling station; and, a driver coupled to the carousel assembly forrotation of the carousel assembly, wherein the workpiece is rotatedbetween the loading, heating and cooling stations.
 2. The thermalprocessing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the carousel assembly has aframe with at least one receiver configured to support the workpiece. 3.The thermal processing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the carouselassembly has a cover assembly operably connected to the frame.
 4. Thethermal processing apparatus of claim 3, wherein the cover assembly ismoveable between a closed position wherein the cover assembly covers thereceiver, and an open position wherein the cover assembly is elevatedwith respect to the frame to permit insertion of the workpiece into thereceiver.
 5. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 3, wherein thecover assembly includes a control arm with a first portion pivotallyconnected to the frame and a second portion that engages an actuator tomove the cover assembly from a closed position to an open position. 6.The thermal processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the loading stationis defined by an extent of a frame of the carousel assembly.
 7. Thethermal processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the heating stationcomprises a heater assembly having a heater element positioned below thecarousel assembly and an actuator for moving the heater element intothermal contact with the workpiece.
 8. The thermal processing apparatusof claim 7, wherein the heater assembly includes a sensor that monitorsa position of the heater element to prevent rotation of the carouselassembly until the actuator moves the heater element away from theworkpiece.
 9. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein thecooling station comprises a cooling assembly having a cooling elementpositioned below the carousel assembly and an actuator for moving thecooling element into thermal contact with the workpiece.
 10. The thermalprocessing apparatus of claim 9, wherein the cooling element comprises achannel that defines a fluid passageway.
 11. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 9, wherein the cooling assembly further comprises asensor that monitors a position of the cooling element to preventrotation of the carousel assembly until the actuator moves the coolingelement away from the workpiece.
 12. The thermal processing apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the carousel assembly comprises a process fluiddistribution system for delivering process fluid to the loading, heatingand cooling stations.
 13. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 12,wherein the process fluid is a gas.
 14. The thermal processing apparatusof claim 12, wherein the process fluid is a non-oxidizing gas.
 15. Thethermal processing apparatus of claim 12, wherein the process fluid isnitrogen.
 16. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 12, wherein theprocess fluid comprises approximately 90-97% by volume argon andapproximately 3-10% by volume hydrogen.
 17. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 12, wherein the process fluid comprises approximately90-98% by volume nitrogen and approximately 2-10% by volume hydrogen.18. An apparatus for thermally processing microelectronic workpieces,the apparatus comprising: a rotatable carousel assembly having a frameconfigured to support a plurality of workpieces; a heating station; acooling station, wherein the heating and cooling stations are positionedradially outwardly from a central axis of the carousel assembly; and, adriver coupled to the carousel assembly to selectively rotate theworkpieces between the heating station and the cooling station.
 19. Thethermal processing apparatus of claim 18, wherein the frame comprises areceiver configured to support the workpieces in a substantiallyhorizontal arrangement.
 20. The thermal processing apparatus of claim19, wherein the carousel assembly comprises a cover assembly operablyconnected to the frame.
 21. The thermal processing apparatus of claim20, wherein the cover assembly is moveable between a closed positionwherein the cover assembly covers the receiver, and an open positionwherein the cover assembly is elevated with respect to the receiver topermit insertion of a workpiece into the receiver.
 22. The thermalprocessing apparatus of claim 21, wherein the cover assembly includes acontrol arm with a first portion pivotally connected to the frame and asecond portion that engages an actuator to move the cover assembly fromthe closed position to the open position.
 23. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 18, wherein the heating station comprises a heaterassembly having a heater element positioned below the frame of thecarousel assembly and an actuator for moving the heater element intothermal contact with one of the workpieces.
 24. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 23, wherein the heater assembly further comprises asensor that monitors a position of the heater element to preventrotation of the carousel assembly until the actuator moves the heaterelement away from the one of the workpieces.
 25. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 18, wherein the cooling station comprises a coolingassembly having a cooling element positioned below the frame of thecarousel assembly and an actuator for moving the cooling element intothermal contact with one of the workpieces.
 26. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 25, wherein the cooling element comprises a channelthat defines a fluid passageway.
 27. The thermal processing apparatus ofclaim 25, wherein the cooling assembly further comprises a sensor thatmonitors a position of the cooling element to prevent rotation of thecarousel assembly until the actuator moves the cooling element away fromthe one of the workpieces.
 28. The thermal processing apparatus of claim23, wherein the actuator comprises a bellows.
 29. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 25, wherein the actuator comprises a bellows.
 30. Anapparatus for thermally processing microelectronic workpieces, theapparatus comprising: a base having a heating element and a coolingelement; a rotatable carousel assembly having a frame configured tosupport a plurality of workpieces; and, a driver coupled to the carouselassembly for rotation of the carousel assembly between a first position,wherein one of the plurality of workpieces is in thermal contact withthe heating element and a second position, wherein the one of theplurality of workpieces is in thermal contact with the cooling element.31. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 30, further comprising aprocess fluid distribution system extending through a central opening inthe carousel assembly, wherein the distribution system delivers processfluid to the workpieces.
 32. The thermal processing apparatus of claim31, wherein the process fluid is a gas.
 33. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 31, wherein the process fluid is a non-oxidizing gas.34. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 31, wherein the processfluid is nitrogen.
 35. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 31,wherein the process fluid comprises approximately 90-97% by volume argonand approximately 3-10% by volume hydrogen.
 36. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 31, wherein the process fluid comprises approximately90-98% by volume nitrogen and approximately 2-10% by volume hydrogen.37. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 30, wherein in the firstposition, another one of the plurality of workpieces is in thermalcontact with the cooling element.
 38. The thermal processing apparatusof claim 30, wherein in the second position, another one of theplurality of workpieces is in thermal contact with the heating element.39. An apparatus for thermally processing a microelectronic workpiece,the apparatus comprising: a rotatable carousel assembly configured tosupport the workpiece, wherein the carousel assembly rotates theworkpiece between a loading station, a heating station, and a coolingstation; and, a process fluid distribution system coupled to thecarousel assembly and having a passageway for delivering process fluidto the workpiece.
 40. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 39,wherein the heating station comprises a heating element positioned belowthe carousel assembly and an actuator for moving the heater element intothermal contact with the workpiece.
 41. The thermal processing apparatusof claim 40, wherein the heating station further comprises a sensor fordetermining a position of the heater element.
 42. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 40, wherein the heating station further comprises asensor for determining a temperature of the heating element.
 43. Thethermal processing apparatus of claim 41, wherein the carousel assemblyrotates based upon the sensed position of the heater element.
 44. Thethermal processing apparatus of claim 39, wherein the cooling stationcomprises a cooling element positioned below the carousel assembly andan actuator for moving the cooling element into thermal contact with theworkpiece.
 45. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 44, wherein thecooling station further comprises a sensor for determining a position ofthe cooling element.
 46. The thermal processing apparatus of claim 44,wherein the cooling station further comprises a sensor for determining atemperature of the cooling element.
 47. The thermal processing apparatusof claim 45, wherein the carousel assembly rotates based upon the sensedposition of the cooling element.
 48. The thermal processing apparatus ofclaim 39, wherein the process fluid distribution system comprises amanifold that extends through a central opening in the carouselassembly, the manifold having at least one discharge port in fluidcommunication with the carousel assembly.
 49. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 39, wherein the process fluid distribution systemcomprises a stationary input sleeve with at least one opening thatreceives process fluid from a supply line.
 50. The thermal processingapparatus of claim 39, wherein the process fluid distribution systemcomprises: an input sleeve having an annular channel for receiving theprocess fluid from a supply source; and a manifold connected to theinput sleeve for selective distribution of the process fluid to theworkpiece at the loading, heating, and cooling stations.
 51. The thermalprocessing apparatus of claim 50, further comprising a driver coupled tothe carousel and the process fluid distribution system for rotation ofthe workpiece between the loading, heating, and cooling stations.
 52. Amethod of thermally processing a microelectronic workpiece, comprisingthe steps of: loading a workpiece into an assembly configured to supportthe workpiece; moving a heating element into thermal engagement with theworkpiece; heating the workpiece; moving the heating element away fromthe workpiece; rotating the assembly to move the workpiece from a firstposition to a second position; moving a cooling element into thermalengagement with the workpiece; cooling the workpiece; moving the coolingelement away from the workpiece; and, removing the workpiece from theassembly.
 53. The method of claim 52 further comprising the step ofapplying a vacuum to the workpiece prior to moving the heating elementinto thermal engagement with the workpiece.
 54. The method of claim 52further comprising the step of supplying a quantity of process fluid tothe workpiece during the step of heating the workpiece.
 55. The methodof claim 54, wherein the process fluid is a gas.
 56. The method of claim54, wherein the process fluid is a non-oxidizing gas.
 57. The method ofclaim 54, wherein the process fluid is nitrogen.
 58. The method of claim54, wherein the process fluid comprises approximately 90-97% by volumeargon and approximately 3-10% by volume hydrogen.
 59. The method ofclaim 54, wherein the process fluid comprises approximately 90-98% byvolume nitrogen and approximately 2-10% by volume hydrogen.
 60. A methodof thermally processing a microelectronic workpiece, comprising thesteps of: loading a workpiece into a thermal processing apparatus havinga heating element and a cooling element; rotating the apparatus to movethe workpiece into thermal contact with the heating element; heating theworkpiece; rotating the apparatus to move the workpiece into thermalcontact with the cooling element; cooling the workpiece; and removingthe workpiece from the apparatus.
 61. The method of claim 60, whereinthe thermal processing apparatus comprises a carousel assemblyconfigured to hold at least two workpieces.
 62. The method of claim 61,wherein the step of heating the workpiece is carried out on a first oneof the at least two workpieces and the step of cooling the workpiece issimultaneously carried out on a second one of the at least twoworkpieces.
 63. The method of claim 60 further comprising the step ofcreating an environment free of oxygen before heating the workpiece.